Outline

Objective

A geriatric patient group operated on for pituitary adenoma was to be evaluated for preoperative findings and long-term outcome in order to relate potential benefits to the morbidity and potential risks of the procedure.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of patients 70 years and older, that had been amongst a group of patients operated transnasally for pituitary adenoma between 1/93 and 12/01. Preoperative findings, surgical reports and long-term clinical, radiological, ophthalmological and endocrinological status follow-up were evaluated.

Conclusions

The portion of macroadenomas and visual defects amongst geriatric patients diagnosed with pituitary adenoma is immense. The postoperative course is quite encouraging. Visual disturbances, even if long lasting, can be influenced positively in most cases. The majority requires permanent substitution. Tn-ts pituitary surgery should be offered to elderly patients, outcome is excellent.